Texas Takes Over Fort Worth Schools, New Leader Appointed

0:00The Texas Education Agency has taken over the Fort Worth independent school district due to ongoing poor performance, appointing a new superintendent, and a nine-member board of managers. Peter Lakata, who led schools in South Florida, steps in as the top leader, replacing the elected board. Their first meeting happens Tuesday at 5.30 p.m. at the District Service Center. Earlier this week, a planned board meeting got canceled as the state announced the new team. Now, the agenda focuses on electing a board president, vice president, and secretary for members like Bobby Ahidea, Rosa, Maria, Bredezja, Luis Galindo. Laurie George, Pete Jiren, Courtney Lewis, Frost Prierlow, Jay Stegel, and Tennessee Walker. Officials expect Pete Jiren to take the president role. This shake-ups stems from serious issues, including one campus earning its fifth straight effort rating, plus 20 schools with unacceptable scores for ad. Least two years and eight with three consecutive fails from 2023 to 2025.

1:03State law kicked in after the district closed that failing school, prompting the full takeover to boost reading and math results. On Tuesday, the board will vote to confirm the Kata's long-term contract. He's on a 21-day interim deal and grant him a certification waiver. Since he lacks Texas credentials, they'll also temporarily suspend some local policies on board duties, ethics, and employee practices to streamline operations. Residents can sign up for public comment by calling 817-814-1920 until 4pm. Tuesday or on-site until 5pm. 20pm. This meeting marks a fresh start aimed at turning the district around. From your city, powered by AI, this is Dallas News Today.